It does not matter what the weather is like during Niles’ annual safe downtown trick-or-treat event.

Children and their families come out by the hundreds to get their free candy fix.

“It is craziness,” said Lisa Croteau, of Niles Main Street DDA. “On a rainy day… there is 750. On a beautiful, sunny, glorious day there is 1,200 to 1,500 — and that is not counting the parents.”

This year’s event — the 16th annual downtown trick or treat — will take place from 4 to 5 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 24, on the sidewalks of downtown Niles, including some of the nearby side streets and in Riverfront Plaza.

Dozens of merchants and people from nearby businesses, churches and civic organizations will be set up on the sidewalk handing out free goodies to costumed children of all ages.

Croteau said extra law enforcement would be present to control traffic in case it is needed, so parents do not need to worry as they walk with their children from one candy spot to the next.

“Cars are not typically a problem because there isn’t a lot of traffic at that time of the day,” she said.

Any businesses or organizations wanting to participate can reserve a spot by contacting the Niles Main Street office by phone at (269) 683-4332 or by email at info@uncoverniles.org.